(I explain the program, and the customer fills out the online form. The site gives an instant decision. She gets declined.)

Customer: “I got declined. I don’t understand why.”

Me: “Well, it has to do with your credit. You’ll receive a packet in the mail within 10 business days explaining exactly why you were declined.”

Customer: “This is ridiculous. Can you help me with this? I think I did something wrong.”

Me: “Well, I wouldn’t apply again. It’s not likely to change and it means that it will run another credit check on you.”

(The customer insists, and begins filling it out with me there overseeing. She gets to the section about annual income and planned purchase amount. She puts $100,000 as her annual salary. Keep in mind, she’s no more than 25.)